Frey of the Eagles dies

Frey had health complications for several months, causing the band to recently cancel its Kennedy Center appearance in Washington.

"It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our comrade, Eagles founder, Glenn Frey, in New York City on Monday, January 18th, 2016," the Eagles posted on their web site.

"Glenn fought a courageous battle for the past several weeks but, sadly, succumbed to complications from Rheumatoid Arthritis, Acute Ulcerative Colitis and Pneumonia. The Frey family would like to thank everyone who joined Glenn to fight this fight and hoped and prayed for his recovery."

"Words can neither describe our sorrow, nor our love and respect for all that he has given to us, his family, the music community (and) millions of fans worldwide.

The Michigan native played guitar with Eagles plus piano and keyboards. He sang lead vocals on "Take It Easy," "Peaceful Easy Feeling," "Tequila Sunrise," "Already Gone," "Lyin' Eyes," "New Kid in Town" and "Heartache Tonight."

After the band split in 1980, Frey had a successful solo career. He had hits with "The One You Love," "Smuggler's Blues," "The Heat Is On," "You Belong to the City" and "True Love." Frey released the last of his five solo albums, "After Hours," in 2012.